Lemlem Launches Online Merkato, Today!

Ethiopian expat and bonafide supermodel, Liya Kebede, is well known for supporting artisanal craftsmen in her native land. Her label, lemlem, now four years old, is produced there and draws inspiration from traditional weaving techniques while maintaining a sense of relaxed city-chic.

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Now Kebede's opened a merkato within lemlem's site that she says is stocked with, "a selection of beautiful handmade products that I found in the local `Merkato' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, which is also the largest open air market in Africa."

"Each piece is totally unique and has little quirks because someone made each one with their hands. I think that is a really special quality," Kebede explained of the horn egg cups, combs, jute stuffed animals, trinkets and accessories that are available on the site. Each of the pieces are meant to compliment lemlem's handmade charm and new product will be added intermittently—all sourced on Kebede's trips home.

In her own words, "I think the Merkato Collection should grow to reflect the eclectic beauty of Africa."